Independent Living for Disabled Adults Thrives in Varina

The Richmond Times-Dispatch recently paid a visit to Good Neighbor Village, interviewing its residents and staff members. The heartwarming feature offers a closer look into the Village’s compassionate mission and the positivity they provide to residents.

In 1987, Sandy Thompson joined forces with two other mothers to build a community for adults with mild to moderate intellectual disabilities. It wasn’t just a passion project—it was her mission. Today, two of her children continue her legacy, continuing to grow Good Neighbor Village and provide intellectually disabled adults with a supervised independent living facility.

“They have jobs. They go out on day trips. They do their own grocery shopping,” says Karen Fields, 66, president of the community’s board of directors.

Thompson’s children, Holly Jackson and Michael Thompson, recall that their mother was always deeply committed to Good Neighbor Village. After contracting measles at just 13 months old, their sister was left with a moderate intellectual disability for the rest of her life. Their mother wanted to create a safe place where disabled adults could live after their caregivers were no longer able to provide for them.

The first house in the village, Sandra Thompson Cottage, was constructed in 1992. Since then, two additional cottages have been built. The village now houses nine residents, with a capacity of up to twenty.

Good Neighbor Village offers a trial run or temporary stay for families interested in exploring care options for their loved ones.

Kathryn Deitchman, 45, began with a three-month respite stay before becoming a full-time resident. After more than a year at Good Neighbor Village, she has nothing but positive experiences to share. Not only has she made many friends, but she also feels accepted and safe.

Another resident, Sarah Hague, 65, agrees with Deitchman, describing the community as full of “very nice people” and that “the staff is just excellent.” Hague moved into the adult independent living facility about 18 years ago following the passing of her mother. The walls in her room are full of photos of family and friends.

Deitchman and Hague have become close friends, often reading books and completing word puzzles together.

The surrounding community in Varina is more than welcoming. “Everything that was done to create the village and to keep us going has either been donated,” says Fields. She explains that the community knows who they are and is very supportive of Good Neighbor Village’s endeavors.

Looking ahead, Good Neighbor Village hopes to build a recreation center for residents to host activities, as well as a community center for locals to join the residents in fellowship. The staff and residents warmly welcome new members into the independent living facility and encourage any family seeking respite care to join their community.

If you are interested in becoming a resident or supporting Good Neighbor Village in its mission to help intellectually disabled adults live independently, please visit our contact page, and one of our staff members will be happy to answer any questions you may have.